GMS6356
Core Course
Credits: 3
Instructor: TBD
This course will provide a more specialized application to the principles of forensic anthropology through an in-depth look into some of the more common practices of a forensic anthropologist. Addressing the biological profile, comparative osteology, and unique cases that would involve a forensic anthropologist, the student will gain a better understanding of how osteology is applied in forensic casework.
Prerequisite: Principles of Osteology
Course Objectives: Upon completion of this course students should be able to:
- Understand the role a forensic anthropologist plays in a death investigation
- Identify all major components of the biological profile
- Understand and explain the methods used to determine each aspect of the biological profile
- Explain the utility of forensic taphonomy in a death investigation
- Understand methods of clandestine grave detection and excavation
Topics:
Week # | Module and Topics |
---|---|
1 | Module 1: Introduction to Forensic Casework |
2 | |
3 | Module 2: The Biological Profile – Sex |
4 | |
5 | Module 3: The Biological Profile – Age |
6 | |
7 | Module 4: The Biological Profile – Ancestry and “Race” |
8 | |
9 | Module 5: The Biological Profile – Stature |
10 | Module 6: Unique Pathology or Condition |
11 | |
12 | Module 7: Forensic Taphonomy |
13 | |
14 | Module 8: Clandestine Grave Detection and Excavation |
15 | Final Exam |